Reduction of treatment time in external ring fixation using the Monofix device


Published online: Aug 27 2012

Armand LAUMEN, Johan LAMMENS, Johan VANLAUWE

From the University Hospital Pellenberg, Belgium

Abstract

One of the disadvantages of the Ilizarov method is the long treatment time needed for extensive lengthening or complex deformity correction. To minimize the discomfort of the circular frame the authors have introduced a ‘frame reduction' technique in which the ring frame is converted towards a unilateral fixator, the ‘Monofix'. Both its efficacy and patient satisfaction encouraged the authors to apply this method on a routine basis since 1998 for lower and upper limb corrections. The technique is demonstrated, its indications and potential problems are discussed.